monthly focus ~ loving your neighbors

LOVING YOUR NEIGHBORS

At the end of a missions conference, all I could think about was “I need to reach my neighbors.” I realized that I had really dropped the ball in this very crucial area. I went home that Sunday night with the resolve to change. I realized I was disobeying one of the commands Jesus gave us in Mark 12:31, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”

As I studied the Scriptures, I observed that the command “love your neighbor” is given eight times in the Bible in six different books (one time in the Old Testament and seven times in the New Testament.) Four of the eight times this command was given, Jesus spoke it. Each time He is quoted, He uses a word for love, which means, “giving with no thought of return.” I realized when God repeats something this many times, it is because it is very important.

In order to love our neighbors, we must first get to know them. In today’s world it is rare to know any neighbors, even those next door. It really comes down to taking a little time each week to accomplish this most important task. Someone wisely observed that despite hectic schedules, we find time to do what we consider truly important. If we are going to obey His command, we must make time to demonstrate our love for our neighbors. Here are some steps that will take just a few minutes each week.

• Identify your close neighbors.
• Make a comprehensive list of addresses and phone numbers.
• Schedule to pray regularly for neighbors, making note of special needs you can identify.
• Do a prayer walk as often as possible, praying by names and needs as you pass each home.
• Make time to greet and meet the neighbors you see.
• Let them know you are praying for them and ask, “How can I pray for you?”
• Start a neighborhood prayer/care group.
• Pray for God to help you meet their spiritual needs.
• Offer to watch pets, water flowers, collect mail, etc.
• Entertain them in your home.
• Share your testimony and learn how to Biblically present salvation.
• Invite them to church and special events.
• Identify neighbors with special needs and prepare a “care” basket.
• Send greeting cards.
• Host a Block Party to meet your neighbors and develop relationships (show a video on the garage door).

Perhaps these simple ideas will stimulate you to love your neighbors. In only one year’s time, God has done amazing things on our street. My prayer is that I will continue to be obedient to God and demonstrate love for my neighbors. My hope and prayer is that you will catch the vision to reach your neighborhood with the love of Chirst.